First. I understand Shafer has asked for either an extension or to be let go as its now hurting recruiting. Not 100% confirmed. Shafer does have a good working relationship with Sevyrud & Coyle so in my opinion this is more true than not.
Second. Coyle is ready to pull the trigger (that's what a good AD should be ready to do anyway) but understand has not been given the green light. Also the amount available to spend is in question. Needs up to $2.5 million plus $500-$600k for coordinators - basically double what they are spending now. Not sure if he should pull trigger unless he gets appropriate funding to get the guy he wants. However, paying $2.5 million is more than JB gets paid and is a political problem - you all know SU basketball paid the bill pre ACC during our down years.
Third. There are budget issues. If the Dome gets renovated starting next year, it cuts heavily into the SUAD operating budget as you lose football ticket/box/advertising revenue, you have to pay to hold home games elsewhere further impacting the budget, and Sevyrud insists on a revenue neutral SUAD budget going forward.
Fourth. The capital campaign (a capital budget is different than SUADs operating budget) - Sevyrud's legacy - $2 billion in total or in phases based upon funding below - is up for vote. I understand that the $250 million may still be available from Cuomo (he has a multi billion slush fund for projects like the fairgrounds & amphitheater projects) can also be politically earmarked for the new SU VA med school but also waiting upon Federal monies to kick off the $2 billion 10 year campaign. Outside of capital campaign adds a portion of the CNY region bid for $500 million NY state economic aid - 3 out of 7 regions bid winners should be announced next month in line with overall capital campaign - also includes a: National veterans resource complex: The council would invest $12.5 million for a hub at Syracuse University that would provide research, programming, education, training and entrepreneurship support for military veterans.
This decision is not as easy as some think it is but this is what I've heard but my sources are not as good as what they used to be. Very tight lipped up on the hill due to fear of people losing their jobs - lol was far easier to get info during Gross years. I have to surmise a lot hinges on the timing of the Dome renovation project.
However, just remember Coyle played college football, hired a successful Football HC and has been around a successful football program. He knows how to recognize success. If he thinks Shafer will become successful given his experience, we all must roll with that decision to keep Shafer and extend his contract.
